Looks like the local Knight Ridder outlet is getting the message on Speaker Jim Black. The lead edit today uses the c-word — crony — that we’ve used to describe Black’s political operation for, oh, forever now. But still no call for Black’s resignation:

Speaker Black has helped keep the House focused on important issues and has vigorously represented the interests of his constituents. But his legislative record is replete with examples of arrogance, cronyism and disdain for good legislative procedure. He used the state budget process to control millions of dollars in spending through state agencies. He saw to it that a state job was created for a supporter. He allowed a former aide to continue to direct his office staff after she had left the payroll to become a lobbyist.

When he asserts that negative news coverage is the problem, it’s clear he has missed this fundamental point: The public thinks the legislative process is crooked and sees his actions as evidence of it. That’s why many citizens say he should resign.

And that, I think, is as far as the local Powers That Be will go until — should it ever happen — Jim Black is actually charged with a crime.